2019 Ford Edge ST – European performance for a third of the price

It makes sense that with Ford dropping all cars but the Mustang from their lineup, the loss of such performance cars like the Focus ST and RS means that it was only a matter of time before they did the ST treatment to an SUV. Performance usually doesn’t go hand-in-hand with a sport utility vehicle, but with Porsche, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Lamborghini, and many others putting out ultra-high performance trucks, it’s nice to have a domestic option – that doesn’t break the bank like those others 2019 Ford Edge ST.

The 2019 Ford Edge ST with the EcoBoost V6 was already plenty quick, but the ST version cranks out an additional 20HP and 30ft-lb of torque, settling at an underrated 335HP and 389ft-lb. We say underrated because this thing feels even faster. Some early testing by others has yielded 0-60mph sprints in only 5.6 seconds, which is proper quick and probably means it’s making more power than listed.

To cope with that power the suspension has been upgraded and there’s even a big-brake package available as well. The $2600 option also comes with wider tires, and given the weight and power of this beast, it’s probably a good option to select. The chassis is firm but manages to retain a decent ride quality even with the 21” wheels and stiffer suspension. Handling is engaging for an SUV and manages to keep up with the engine for the most part.

The 8-speed automatic transmission, on the other hand, always feels a step behind. This engine is so willing to pull from any RPM, the slight lag in transmission response is that much more glaring. Even in the ‘Sport’ mode, which holds each gear longer, there’s a noticeable lag between when a shift is selected and when it engages. It’s the only let-down in an otherwise extremely engaging driving experience.

Looking at the 2019 Ford Edge ST, there’s no mistaking the sporting intentions either. From the monochrome black exterior trim, black wheels, and bright color options, there’s no mistaking this for a basic SUV. The interior is equally outfitted with heavily bolstered sport seats, contrasting stitching and carbon fiber/aluminum accents. It’s really a great looking interior and completes the whole theme quite nicely.

Technology is front and center as it is with most Ford vehicles these days. The excellent Sync 3 system, plenty of charging ports, and available active safety features are all at the top of their class. The technology in the powertrain as well is impressive, with all that power it still returns 19MPG City and 26MPG highway, although it’s so much fun to dip into the throttle you may find a hard time hitting those numbers.

From stoplight to stoplight it’s a beast, with all that torque available down low. It’s quite fun to see people’s faces when they see an SUV squirt like that, and if you can manage to keep from getting too many tickets, you’ll have a blast driving it.

Overall, the 2019 Ford Edge ST may not be something we knew we wanted, or that anyone even asked for. But the end result looks great, is fun to drive, and won’t break the bank. Starting at $42k, this gives you 75% of the big European competition’s performance for a third of the price. What’s not to like about that?